How to Fix Overly Yellow Highlights and Restore Your Brown Hair

Overly yellow highlights can be a challenging issue to address, but with the right approach, you can restore the natural brown hue of your hair. Here’s how to tackle this common problem and maintain your hair’s health and vibrancy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Yellow Highlights

Yellow highlights can result from multiple dye jobs, excessive lightening, or even damage from heat styling. However, there are several steps you can take totone down the yellow tones and return your hair to its natural brown color. Let’s dive into the process:

Assess Your Hair Condition

Step 1: Assess Your Hair Condition

Before attempting to correct the yellow tones, ensure your hair is in good condition. If your hair feels damaged, consider undergoing deep conditioning treatments to repair any damage before proceeding with any color corrections.

Use a Purple Shampoo

Step 2: Use a Purple Shampoo

Purple shampoo is designed specifically to counteract and tone down yellow tones. You can use it a few times a week until you achieve the desired shade. Follow the instructions on the packaging, as overuse can lead to a purple tint. Regular use of a purple shampoo can effectively help neutralize yellow tones and restore your hair's natural color.

Consider a Toner

Step 3: Consider a Toner

If purple shampoo doesn’t yield the desired results, you can opt for a toner that is specifically designed to neutralize yellow tones. Look for a toner with a violet base, either at home or in a professional salon. This can be a more direct and efficient method to correct yellow highlights, but it may not be as gentle as using a shampoo.

Color Back to Brown

Step 4: Color Back to Brown

If you decide to return your hair to its natural brown color, opt for a semi-permanent dye. This is a gentler option that can help blend the highlights without causing significant damage. Semi-permanent dyes are less harsh and are easier to remove if you decide to change your mind.

Professional Help: If you are unsure about the process, consulting a stylist can ensure the best results. They can provide you with personalized advice and help you choose a color that complements your skin tone and overall look.

Start Over with Fresh Highlights

Step 5: Start Over

Once your hair has returned to its natural brown shade, you can start fresh with your highlights. Consider techniques such as balayage or ombre, which can create a more natural and blended look. These techniques require professional expertise and can help you achieve a more subtle and flattering result.

Maintenance Tips

Step 6: Maintenance

To maintain your color, use color-safe shampoos and conditioners and be mindful of products that can strip color from your hair. Regular use of hair masks can also help hydrate and nourish your hair, keeping it healthy and vibrant.

Additional Tips

Test a Strand: Before applying any dye or toner, do a strand test to check how your hair reacts to the product. This can help you avoid unwanted color changes or damage. Hydrate Your Hair: Regularly use hair masks to keep your hair healthy and vibrant after coloring. Keeping your hair hydrated can help prevent yellowing and improve its overall appearance.

If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about the process, don’t hesitate to consult a professional stylist for personalized advice. They can provide recommendations tailored to your hair type and color goals, ensuring the best possible results.

Ultimately, if all else fails, the quickest solution is to cut out the highlights and let your hair grow back brown. While this is an extreme option, it is a surefire way to get rid of the yellow highlights permanently.

Additional Considerations:

Highlights are permanent, so permanent color can only be removed by growing it out or cutting it out. Before you try to fix it yourself and do multiple dye jobs, which can result in further damage, consider visiting a salon. Professional help is key to achieving the best results and maintaining the health of your hair.